College students, need more brew and bite for your buck? Here's where to save near NMSU

Domenic Altamirano, right, Dallin Baker, center, and Alex Monroy, drink a few beers at Bosque Brewing Company Public House on University Avenue on Tuesday, Aug. 14.(Photo11: Josh Bachman/Sun-News, )Buy Photo

New Mexico State University students realize pretty quickly that their Aggie ID cards can get them benefits at several places throughout town.

There are also many places near campus that offer regular specials and deals.

To help students who are new to the area, or just beginning to navigate their way into college life, here are five hangouts that are not only in walking distance of campus (or on campus), but can help Aggies save some green.

Bosque Brewing Company

Where: 901 E. University Ave.

Why students should visit: Come for their craft beer and stay for the people-watching on University Avenue. Bosque offers two types of hangouts: a beer bar, which is smaller and more boisterous, and the public house, which has table seating and a full menu.

What's offered: Try unique craft beers, like Elephants on Parade which has a sweeter taste, and choose from a variety of bar food, like Duck Confit Egg Rolls and fresh veggies with sweet chili and Asian peanut sauce. Bosque also brews and cans the official NMSU beer, Pistol Pete’s 1888, a blonde ale-style beer.

Deals/specials: Happy Hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday through Thursday

Spirit Winds has been open for almost 40 years, offering coffee, pastries and gifts.(Photo11: Josh Bachman/Sun-News)

Spirit Winds Gift Source and Coffee Bar

Where: 2260 S. Locust St.

Why students should visit: Go for the coffee, tasty paninis and the eclectic and artistic displays that make you feel like you’re going to a hidden art house while getting lunch. Plus, any unique or wacky gifts for friends and family are best bought here.

What's offered: Their black bean burger is locally famous.

Deals/specials: NMSU students with current ID get 10 percent off any purchase, but you have to present your ID before purchasing.

Daniel Castaneda, a bartender at The Game Sports Bar and Grill on Solano Drive, pours a beer in the restaurant's bar.(Photo11: Josh Bachman/Sun-News)

The Game Sports Bar and Grill

Where: 2605 S. Espina St.

Why students should visit: It feels like you’re in someone’s backyard. “It has an amazing patio with live music on Fridays and Saturdays,” said The Game Sports Bar and Grill owner Marci Dickerson. “It’s reasonably priced and economical for college students to hang out in a relaxed atmosphere.”

What's offered: Fifty-two different types of beer, including 40 craft beers. Try the brisket nachos and the pecan-encrusted green chiles.

Deals/specials: $2.50 beer on Fridays; anytime NFL games are on, the nachos are half-priced with beer specials.

The Chachi’s Works Burger is topped with cheese, bacon, green chile and guacamole, and comes with a side of fries. The restaurant, near New Mexico State University, also serves authentic Mexican food.(Photo11: Sylvia Quintanilla)

Chachi's Mexican Restaurant

Where: 460 S. Locust St.

Why students should visit: Low on gas but have a craving for authentic Mexican food? Chachi’s Mexican Restaurant has you covered. It’s bright and bustling and an easy walk from NMSU.

What's offered: Try the staples like enchiladas, flautas, tamales and tortas. Most plates are around $10.

California rolls and Mexico rolls line a plate at The Mix Pacific Rim Cuisine.(Photo11: Niki Rhynes/For the Sun-News)

The Mix Pacific Rim Cuisine

Where: 1001 E. University Ave. and on campus at the Frenger Food Court

Why students should visit: The University Avenue location has an upscale, yet intimate vibe — perfect for first dates.

What's offered: “Lunch entrée boxes at Frenger are only $4.19 and customers can create their own plates by choosing types of vegetables, carbs and protein,” said The Mix Pacific Rim owner Chiaki Miyazaki, who understands that students might have a hearty appetite. “We serve lots of young students. There are no limits to portions; they can get as much as they want.”

Deals/specials: Monday night specials: select sushi, sake and beer and appetizers are $2. Mid-week specials, Tuesday through Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m.: buy two rolls, get a third roll free.

Honorable mentions

• For a good cup of coffee, where you can relax with friends or study, visit Milagro Coffee Y Espresso, 1733 E. University Ave.

• For drinks in a bar setting, stop at Dublin’s Street Pub, 1745 E. University Ave. If you live in the dorms, you don't have to worry about driving — just walk across the street from campus and you're there.